Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles: A Deliciously Easy Dinner

Name: Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken thighs (Perfect for slow cooking.); 8 oz egg noodles (Cook according to package instructions.); 1/4 cup soy sauce (Use tamari for a gluten-free version.); 1/4 cup honey (Substitute with brown sugar if needed.); 4 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is recommended.); 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (Fresh ginger preferred for flavor.); 1/2 cup chicken broth (Add more as needed.); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Used to thicken the sauce.); 2 tablespoons water (For mixing with cornstarch.); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (Can be omitted but adds flavor.); To taste Green onions for garnish (Add when serving.)

Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of sticky garlic chicken wafting through your kitchen. The kind of aroma that draws your family in, making their mouths water in anticipation. Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is that dish! Pairing tender chicken with rich, savory sauce and perfectly cooked egg noodles, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction to any dining table. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet delicious enough to impress on weekends. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and why it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

This recipe truly offers a delightful culinary experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love preparing it:

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. Perfect for busy evenings!
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe walks you through each step, ensuring a delightful outcome every time.
Ideal for the Whole Family: Kids and adults alike will relish this sticky, flavorful dish—making it a go-to favorite for family dinners.
Economical: Utilizing affordable chicken thighs and pantry staples, this dish is friendly on your wallet while still delivering big on flavor.
Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of savory sauce, tender meat, and chewy noodles makes for a meal that’s both hearty and comforting.

The Necessary Ingredients

For this delicious Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, gather the following ingredients:

4 chicken thighs
8 oz egg noodles
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Green onions for garnish

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Chicken Thighs: They’re perfect for slow-cooking due to their natural fat content that makes for tender, juicy results. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used but be cautious not to overcook, as they can dry out more easily.
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce brings a depth of flavor. For a gluten-free version, tamari can be used, which is also slightly less salty in flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps in caramelizing the sauce. If you need a substitute, brown sugar can work well for a similar flavor profile but won’t provide the same glaze.

How to Prepare the Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create your scrumptious Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles:

Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: In your crockpot, layer the chicken thighs first, followed by soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and chicken broth. Stir gently to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly coated.

Pro Tip: Ensure that the sauce covers the chicken well to maximize flavor infusion as it cooks.
Cook the Chicken: Cover with the lid and set your crockpot to low, cooking for about 6-8 hours. You know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a rush, you can cook on high for about 3-4 hours instead, but low and slow gives the best flavors.
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot using tongs. Use two forks to shred it into bite-size pieces and return it to the crockpot, mixing it back into the savory sauce.

Pro Tip: Allow the chicken to cool a few minutes before shredding to avoid burns!
Make the Sauce Slurry: In a small mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot to help thicken the sauce.

Pro Tip: Mix the slurry thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.
Thicken the Sauce: Increase the crockpot temperature to high and cook for an additional 30 minutes. This helps the sauce to thicken up nicely.

Pro Tip: Stir every 10 minutes to check on the thickness and avoid burning on the bottom.
Cook the Noodles: While the sauce is thickening, boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Rinse your noodles under cold water after draining to keep them from sticking together.
Combine Everything: Toss the cooked noodles with the shredded chicken and sauce. Drizzle sesame oil over the top and mix well for added flavor. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tip: Serve the noodles hot to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles experience, consider these serving ideas:

Perfect Pairings:

Drinks: A crisp iced tea or a refreshing homemade lemonade complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes: Steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of the dish.

Occasions:

Weeknight Dinner: This recipe is quick for a family meal, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
Special Occasion Meal: Add a fancy touch with a side of garlic bread or a handmade dessert to finish off a lovely dinner.

Serving Tips:

Serve in individual bowls topped with green onions for a nice presentation.
Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an aesthetically pleasing garnish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Follow these guidelines to store your leftovers properly:

Refrigerated:

Duration: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Type of Container: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezed:

If possible: You can freeze the chicken and sauce (up to 3 months).
Packaging: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating:

Best Method: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t Skip the Marinade: Give the chicken time to marinate in the sauce for maximum flavor.
Monitor Cooking Time: Be cautious not to overcook; chicken should be tender yet juicy.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: Always taste your sauce and adjust thickness as needed to your preference.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a marked difference in flavor compared to powdered versions.
Keep It Covered: Always leave the lid on your crockpot while cooking to maintain heat and moisture.

Recipe Variations

If you want to mix things up a bit, here are some fun variations to try:

For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
For a vegan version: Substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For added veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a vibrant, nutritious addition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breasts can be used in this recipe. However, be mindful of cooking times, as they can dry out if overcooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and then pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. Let the steam release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

Q: How do I prevent my sauce from becoming too thick?
A: If your sauce gets too thick, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water to loosen it while reheating.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure your crockpot can accommodate the extra volume.

Q: What is the best way to shred chicken?
A: Using two forks works best, but you can also use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken quickly.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when it easily shreds with a fork and appears opaque throughout.

Q: Can I leave out the sesame oil?
A: You can omit the sesame oil, but it does add a unique flavor. Consider replacing it with olive oil for a milder taste.

With this delightful Crockpot Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles recipe at your disposal, you’re all set to create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to earn a place in the hearts of your family and friends. Enjoy!